The Philippine Navy reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to maritime cooperation and regional stability through the Official Visit of the Flag Officer in Command, Vice Admiral Jose Ma Ambrosio Q Ezpeleta PN to Japan from May 18 to 21, 2026.
Upon the invitation of Admiral Saito Akira, Chief of Staff of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), Vice Admiral Ezpeleta led the PN delegation in a series of high-level engagements focused on strengthening naval diplomacy, interoperability, and strategic partnership.
The visit featured an Honor Guard and Wreath Laying Ceremony (Flower Tribute) at the Ministry of Defense in Camp Ichigaya and bilateral discussions on regional security and maritime cooperation, underscoring both navies’ shared commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region.
The delegation also conducted operational visits to key JMSDF facilities in Yokosuka, including the Maritime Operations Center and naval platforms such as JS Ohnami (Japanese Destroyer), SS Yaeshio (Japanese Submarine), and JS Awaji (Japanese Minesweeper). These engagements highlighted the growing collaboration between the PN and the JMSDF in maritime domain awareness, naval capability development, interoperability, and professional military exchanges in support of a stable and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.
The official visit likewise underscored the importance of defense diplomacy and people-to-people ties through cultural engagements and a courtesy call on Her Excellency Mylene J. Garcia-Albano, Philippine Ambassador to Japan.
Bound by shared values and a common maritime purpose, the PN and the JMSDF continue to strengthen their enduring partnership in pursuit of peace, stability, and security across the Indo-Pacific.